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VENAO     LIFE

FOOD & DRINKS IN VENAO

Playa Venao offers everything from beachfront street food to a one of a kind gastronomic experience on top of a mountain with a 360 degree view. This is where you can taste it all, from kinetic coffee followed by an ice bath to International chef takeovers by the sea. It’s incredibly diverse range of dining options and equally unique crossroad of cultures will cater to food lovers from all walks of life. Whether you are looking for healthy, sweets, drinks, or local hangouts, we will recommend the best restaurants and experiences that Venao has to offer. Savour new flavors, new atmospheres, new people, and discover the obsession that goes into satisfying every craving.

ALMENDRO CAFÉ

Healthy, Delicious and Vegan

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Highlights: 

healthy, vegan options, coffee, coworking, chill, soups and salads.
Almendro Café is the perfect healthy option any time of day. Nestled in a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by nature, you can find delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. You can often find people working in the mornings while enjoying a good coffee with good Wifi. Among the first choice of locals as it never disappoints, leaving you satisfied and happy after a tasty & hearty meal.

EVERYDAY 8:00 - 22:00

BLUE ROOSTER

Roasted chicken Specialty

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Highlights: 

roasted chicken, lunch, soups, food court, sandwiches.
Blue Rooster is the newest addition to the Wao Venao food court and its a specialty chicken rotisserie that is offered in different presentations like sandwiches, schnitzel and roasted with salad. But you cannot miss their famous beef rib soup with white rice whem craving some delicious homemade soup vibes. And their meatball sandwich, because why not? Another perk is that they offer free delivery on the beach.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 21:00

BONJOUR ICE CREAM

Homemade Gourmet Ice Cream

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Highlights: 

artisan ice cream, vegan options, cones, sugar free, gluten free, sorbet.
There are so many reasons to visit any of the 2 Bonjour lce Cream locations on the beach, starting with: who doesnt enjoy artisan gourmet ice cream while contemplating the ocean waves? Come back time and again not just for the home-made deliciousness, but because Noemi offers sugar free, gluten free options as well as vegan flavors to choose from, and a beautiful smile to go with it. Find her in Wao Venao and La Barca.

EVERYDAY 15:00 - 19:00

CANTINA VENAO

Fresh cuisine & Local Hangout Happy Hours

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Highlights: 

community hangout, fresh fish and tuna, music, indoor area, bar, cocktails, wine.
In Cantina Venao you have surprises every day as their rolling menu will bring new dishes based on the fresh local products that are available. Chef Erick Shavit brings forward asian inspired creations, one of the highlights being fresh lb fish cooked in a very authentic way. Pass by this intimate local favorite hangout and enjoy their signature cocktails while you bask in the community vibes.

EVERYDAY 18:00 - 02:00

CASA VENAO

Kinetic madness Bites

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Highlights: 

kinetic coffee, a/c, library, community hangout, ice baths, red light therapy, compression massage
Casa Venao has come to Venao with a new offering that is revolutionizing the wellness environment in a space that offers healthy, energy boosting and nutritious smoothies, teas and snacks like to die for protein muffins and more. While sipping on one of the best coffees around you can prepare to receive their services like cold plunges, kinetic breathwork, red/near infrared light therapy, infrared crystal mat therapy and lymphatic massage compression therapy. Come get your does of healing and goodies.

EVERYDAY 10:00 - 16:00
BY APPOINTMENT

COLEOS CAFÉ

Mediterranen Fusion Yumminess

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Highlights: 

heart of venao, mediterranean, asian, favorite eats for locals, hummus.
Coleos is a restaurant you can´t miss when looking to enjoy a combination of meditarrernean and asian flavors in one plate. It is ideal for sharing in groups and enjoying the hustle and bustle of main street Venao. It is a place where you will find locals and tourists alike as it offers excellent vegetarian and vegan options. You will always find a smiling service and a relaxing environment. There is a reason it is the restaurant that people keep coming back to time and again. You will not be disappointed. Come and enjoy some Coleos Love! They also deliver anywhere in Venao.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 23:00

DONDE RUBÉN

Surf, Steak & Pool House

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Highlights: 

beachfront, pool table, grilled fish and meat, sport events, beer.
Donde Ruben is the only panamanian inspired restaurant on the beach. Here you can enjoy freshly caught fish of the day and high quality meat paired with a national beer and a nice glass of wine . This beachfront option is a local favorite spot for watching surfers, surf competitions and footvolley tournaments while hanging out with friends. Come enjoy this laid back atmosphere with good food and drinks while trying to beat Ruben at pool. Good luck with that!

EVERYDAY 11:00 - 23:00

EL CAFÉ DE ACÁ

Coffee shop, Homemade Pies & Nature

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Highlights: 

specialty coffee, sourdough, avocado toast, homemade yogurt, monkeys, nature.
El Café de Acá is a special nook nestled among the monkey filled trees in Eco Venao. They serve high quality coffee from the panamanian highlands and offer homemade pies that are a delight to have. Everything is made on the spot and their open terrace is a perfect spot for unwinding and connecting with nature. Come with a book or with a companion to enjoy their goodies, their coffee and all the specialty treats they have available.

THUR-TUE 7:00 - 14:00

EL PICNIC

Soup & Salad local joint

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Highlights: 

soup of the day, sandwiches, coffee, wine, banana bread, cookies.
El Picnic fast became a hotspot in the community as if offers daily homemad soup and a coffee so good (its 100% panamanian and she has 4 methods of extraction) you must stop and have a chat with Anita the owner who will always greet you with a smile. She also promotes daily specials like orange coffee, affogatto (espresso with ice cream), ceviche and more. If you fancy a bite to eat she has salty and sweet covered as well as a wine selection and craft beer if you are looking for an afternnoon picnic hangout. Love at first bite!

SUN-TUE 8:00 - 15:00
WED-SAT 8:00 - 21:00

EL SITIO

Fusion Food, Bar & Sunset sessions

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Highlights: 

beachfront, fusion, local ingredients, sunset music vibes, bar, shakshuka.
El Sitio, as it name proposes is the place to be. Due to its centric location and glorious beachfront vibe, this is an all time favorite to bask in the energy of Venao as you enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is relaxed and the lighting makes it all that much tastier. This is a great option at any time of day, with family or friends. Their cuisine is an international fusion and has something for everybody. They are known for their famous shakshuka, for having one of the best burgers on the beach, for their fresh tuna in diverse presentations, and their mouthwatering desserts. El Sitio will always be a good option for quality, atmosphere and offer. And if you happen to be there at sunset you will probably enjoy a live DJ session, so walk on to the lounge and bar area to enjoy some cocktails while you dance in this playground.

EVERYDAY 8:00 - 22:00

EL TIMÓN

Late Night Venezuelan Food

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Highlights: 

beachfront, venezuelan, seafood, arepas, late night snacks.
El Timon offers a piece of Venezuela on a prime beachfront spot in Wao. They offer their signature arepas of different kinds. These are traditional round corn patties that are open, grilled and filled with a variety of savory ingredients. Come taste them and see for yourself if they are worth it. You can satisfy a late night craving as they are open for extended hours at night.

EVERYDAY 13:00 - 03:00

FAMA SUSHI

Homemade Asian and Sushi

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Highlights: 

beachfront, dim sum, fresh fish, sushi, delivery.
Fama sushi closes the beachfront offer full circle with the possibility of fresh fish just steps from the ocean. They have a wide variety of different rice and fried options like spring rolls and tempura, but they completely hit it out of the ballpark with their late breakfast dim sum. Enjoy their tuna sashimi as fresh as possible and ask for their daily meal specials.

EVERYDAY 11:00 - 21:00

FOK BURGER

Burger with a View

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Highlights: 

smash burgers, view, venao hilltop, fast food, fokfries.
Because who dosent like a good burger with a view? FokBurger has got us covered. You are invited every afternoon to Punta Azul on the mountain to enjoy a delicious smashburger with the best view of the bay. You can choose between a single or double angus beef patty, with pickles, a cooked thin slice onion, cheese, butter and sauce served in a soft bun accompanied with fries and coke or water or just their famous FokFries with everything but the bun. Look out for their occasional Pulled Pork Sandwich Special.

EVERYDAY 17:00 - 22:00

GATTO BLANCO

Authentic Italian food on the beach

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Highlights: 

beachfront, authentic italian, oven pizza, stracciatella, nutella & pistachio calzone, grappa.
Venao must have done something right to have an authentic italian restaurant in front of the ocean. This is a must visit that will satisfy you on so many levels. Starting from their mouthwatering oven pizza, to their homemade pasta paired with carefully selected italian wine and beer to elevate the experience. If you are feeling adventorous and want something extra special, add some straciatella to your pizza and do not leave without ordering their nutella and pistachio calzone. You will leave with a heart filled with joy and a stomach filled with love.

EVERYDAY 7:30 - 21:00

LA BARCA

Beach Bar, Pop-ups, Drinks & Sunsets

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Highlights: 

beachfront bar, cocktails, chef takeovers, cheeseburger, music parties.
The best hidden secret in Venao, where the bar is an actual boat is a must visit. You can reach La Barca Beach Bar by a leisure walk on the beach or a 2 min car ride from the Venao Center. You will not want to miss this beautiful spot at the other end of the beach to get a different sensation of Venao and spend a laid back afternoon in front of the ocean, sipping the famous "Gino" cocktail and enjoying one of their mouthwatering cheeseburgers. They organize dance parties on weekends, bonfires and the occasional pop up/takeovers from famous chefs. Walk over during sunset and enjoy this not so hidden gem.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 22:00

LA HUMMUSERIA

Authentic Middle Eastern Vibes

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Highlights: 

middle eastern, mediterranean, authentic, games, turkish coffee, diablo, hummus.
Coming to La Hummuseria is always a treat. This old time favorite offers many options to enjoy from the traditional hummus with meat or mushrooms, to a variety of small plates, beet soup, the best labne in town and several traditional middle eastern and mediterranean dishes as well as fusion options. There is always a vibrant playlist and if you have some time stick around to play some board games inside or in the comfy terrace with Gilad, the owner. Before you leave, make sure you ask if they have Diablo, a special dessert that pairs perfectly with their famous turkish coffee. Come and feel all the love in this Venao favorite local spot.

MON-SAT 10:00 - 22:00

LA PALMA

Food, Drinks and Beachfront Sunsets.

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Highlights: 

beachfront, game nights, pool table, Djs, workshops, sunsets, music, tacos.
In La Palma you will be sure to enjoy a great sunset while having a drink, eating their specialty which is Mexican food, all while taking in the beach view. But not only that, since this restaurant is inside of Selina Playa, you can always find yourself amongst a wide array of things to watch, listen to and join in like live DJs, live music, cooking or crafts workshops, yoga classes, karaoke and diverse game nights with specials and prizes for the winners. La Palma is one of the 10 restaurants that comprise the Maito Group, whose insignia restaurant, Maito, located in Panama City, stands out as the best restaurant in Central America in the list of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America in 2022.

SUN-WED 7:00 - 00:00
THU-SAT 7:00 - 01:00

LA QUINCHA

Spanish/Panamanian Fusion & Cocktails

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Highlights: 

seafood, girlled meat, fusion, latin vibes, cocktail bar, gastronomic experience.
La Quincha offers a special dining experience for that special romantic night or for a nice family outing. The latin vibes and the warm welcomes distinguishes this Spanish/Panamanian culinary fusion restaurant that also happens to have a signature bar, led by our very own Fufo, Black Perla, reknowed surfer and instructor who will not only impress you with his moves in the water but is also famous for his delicious cocktails. Dont miss out on these items during your stay: The Salmorejo cold soup if its hot out, the Fideuá (noodle paella) special on Saturdays, our own Panamanian Sancocho for the hangover on Sundays and the Bernard´s mousse, their Michelin star awarded dessert.


LUNCH 12:30 - 3:00
DINNER 6:30 - 10:00
Closed Tuesdays

LOS NÁUFRAGOS

Sit down dinner, wine and specialty menu

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Highlights: 

relaxed atmosphere, nature, wine, vegan options, trivia nights, halloween.
If you are looking for something a bit nicer and surrounded by nature, Los Náufragos in Eco Venao does not disappoint. Its laid back environment is calm and lighted to create a magical sensation. Start with a cocktail and splurge on the bottle of wine as you will be wanting to take your time here. Their selective menu is based on naturally sources and local ingredients and presents a delightful gastronomic experience to satisfy every palate. Fun filled activities like Trivia nights and the annual Halloween Party are epic community favorites.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 22:01

MICAELA

Fresh Fish and Vegan Brunch

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Highlights: 

beachfront, fresh seafood, brunch, shakshuka, vegan options.
With its beautiful terrace in front of the ocean, Micaela is the perfect corner for a gastronomic experience while admiring the waves or sunset. Located in the Playa Venao Resort, it proposes a finely presented fusion food.For breakfast, lunch or dinner, there is a variety of options to suit any kind of taste. Find fruits plates or egg based dishes for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, choose between appetizers like soup, salad, ceviches or guacamole and main courses like different seafood plates, Angus burger or Micaelas special dishes.

EVERYDAY 7:30 - 22:00

MOTEK

So sweet, you will melt of joy!

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Highlights: 

croffles, affogatto, ice cream, homemade cookies, vegan, munchies favorite, must try.
Motek has definitely contributed to the increase of sweet cravings on the beach. They bring Keenes ice cream brand with vegan options that are to die for. The place is cozy with a beautiful decor and space that invites you to cool off inside while getting a delicious coffee and deciding which will be the sweet temptation of the day. If there is one guilty pleasure you cannot leave without tasting, it is the croffle (croissant/waffle combination) with pistachio and nutella. A bomb of perfection that will leave you melting with love and coming back for more.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 00:00

NATURAL VENAO

Juices and Smoothie Bowls Bar

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Highlights: 

healthy, coconut water, aćai, smoothie bowl, snacks, fresh fruits.
Sometimes you just need something refreshing, healthy and tasty during your day. Natural Venao will pamper you and personalize your order with the best combinations and freshest fruits in town. Enjoy some healthy snacks, smoothies, bowls and give your body a delicious treat. Get creative and dont forget they also serve cool coconut water in the cutest coconut cup that you can take as a souvenier.

EVERYDAY 8:00 - 17:00

OLEAJES DE SABOR

Panamanian Culinary Fonda Experience

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Highlights: 

beachfront, patacones, fried frish, panamanian food, ceviche, delivery.
Oleajes de Sabor offers true Panamanian flavors with homemade dishes everyday. Find their vibrant flavors in 2 locations for lunch or dinner : at the Wao plaza and all day breakfast in Nao Hostel. They offer a daily special (la comida del dia) so you can find tasty and complete food to a budget-friendly price every day. Their excellent service will definitely make you feel at home. If you are a vegetarian, they can create a meal adapted to your needs with fresh vegetables. Enjoy the typical panamanian patacones, fresh ceviche, fried fish, burgers and also international flavors. For a unique twist, try their special Patacon burger, which is a burger made with patacones instead of the usual burger bun.

EVERYDAY 12:00 - 21:00

PANAR BAKERY

Argentinian Artisan Bakery

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Highlights: 

argentinian, alfajores, coffee, burekas, breakfast place.
PanAr is an artisanal bakery in Playa Venao serving freshly baked goods with love every day.It is the perfect calm place to go have breakfast and coffee or grab a snack on the go. With their wide selection of argentinians style empanadas, burrekas, croissants and cakes, you will definetely find something to munch on. Those baked snacks are a nutrient and delicious budget friendly option in Playa Venao.For a full meal, PanAr offers you different sandwiches, toasts, pizzas and complete dishes like omelettes with salads.

SUN-THURS 7:00 - 16:00
FRI -SAT 7:00 - 18:00
Closed Wednesdays.

PIZZA GAVILÁN

Pizza, Tacos, Pool & Salsa Nights

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Highlights: 

beachfront, pool table, coffee, healthy, pizza, tacos, salsa nights.
Pizza Gavilan offers a wide arrange of options with authentic taste, locally sourced ingredients and handmade pizza. Besides their pizza, the menu has a variety of foods like pastas, tacos, burgers and salads to meet every groups desires. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner from the center of the horseshoe bay where you can enjoy the ocean view and unlimited coffee every day from 8-11 am. You will often find locals dancing away every Tuesday night with salsa class and a live salsa band. Come mingle with the Venao Community and enjoy the food, the drinks, the waves, the dancing, the pool table and the local environment at its best.

EVERYDAY 8:00 - 23:00

RICO´S COFFEE

Panamanian Coffee Spot

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Highlights: 

panamanian coffee, fresh baked, milkshakes, snow cones, good wifi.
Rico´s coffee is the perfect place to have a great Panamanian coffee surrounded by the beach and good vibes. At Rico's, you can also find a unique treat in Venao : milkshakes with carefully elaborated flavours such as chocolate brownie, butterscotch or even bubblegum. If hungry, Rico's has you covered with some fresh baked goods by local bakers or waffles.

EVERYDAY 6:30 - 21:00

SHAKA SUSHI

Sushi in Playa Venao

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Highlights: 

beachfront, fresh fish, sushi, sashimi, spring rolls.
Shaka Sushi offers many different kinds of sushi always with the freshest fish and ingredients for satisfying the most intese of cravings. Pass by the Playa Venao Resort and lounge next to their infinity pool to enjoy all the sushi they have available as well as other options, including vegetarian dishes.

WED-SUN 12:00 - 00:00
MON & TUE 14:00 - 22:00

SOL VENAO

Natural Smoothies & Healthy Bites

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Highlights: 

cold pressed juice, cozy mornings, smoothie bowl, energy balls, açaí, gluten free.
Looking for healthy and natural way of starting the day? Sol is the place to go to find breakfasts packed with fruits and some of the most popular gluten free options in Venao. With lots of vegan options as well, Sol offers mostly smoothies to drink or to enjoy in a bowl with fresh fruits, sweet breakfasts like gluten free pancakes, energy balls, sweet treats like GF vegan snickers or bar and toasts (avocado or salmon).

WED - MON 8:00 - 15:00
Closed Tuesdays.

SWELL BEACH BAR

Beachfront Cocktail & Latin Dance Bar

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Highlights: 

beachfront, cocktails, latin vibes, music, dancing, sunsets.
Swell is the only place in Venao where something is always happening. Its centric beachfront location, friendly staff and famous drinks make it an all around community favorite. Catch a live sports game, stop for a refreshing drink for sunset and stay farther into the night to dance away to latin vibes and reggaeton beats. There is no reason to come more than just to put a smile on your face. Enjoy good energy and grab dinner in any of the restaurants around in Wao Venao food court. Come live the real beach party experience with locals and tourists alike.

SUN-WED 9:30 - 00:30
THUR-SAT 9:30 - 02:00

TASTE OF ALAYA

Magical Gastronomic Experience in Nature

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Highlights: 

culinary experience, wine cellar, nature, high quality flavor and ingredients, cocktails.
Located in Cañas, just 8min drive from Venao Center, Alaya invites you to embark on a culinary journey, discovering cuisines from around the world with locally sourced quality products from Panama. Having travelled the world for many years with friends and family, we have passion for sharing our gourmet discoveries.Our Mother Earth having so much to offer, it was impossible to limit ourselves to a specific type of gastronomy.From the fresh fish caught right off the shores of Cañas or tasty products from our permaculture to a unique preparation from the other side of the globe, it’s all about sharing and caring. So, sit tight and enjoy the voyage… for Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerReservations via Whatsapp on +507 6358 6809


BREAKFAST 7:00 - 10:15
LUNCH 12:00 - 14:30
DINNER 19:00 - 21:00

TERRA RESTAURANT

Amazing Food, Wine and Drinks

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Highlights: 

beachfront, lounge, coffee, vegan options, sunset, cocktails, music.
Terra is the perfect gastronomic complement to the Blue Venao Beach Club. Enjoy quality dishes on their unique menu while lounging in their beachfront area for breakfast and lunch. Before dinner make sure to reserve the deck terrace to sip cocktails or champagne during sunset and if you are lucky they will have a live DJ set to create the perfect summer vibes. Stay alert for their delicious Dish of the Day and their ocassional and famous Sunday Brunch.

EVERYDAY 7:30 - 22:00

TIGER PANDA WOK

Late Night Asian Cravings

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Highlights: 

asian, street food, late night, poke, pad thai, mango sticky rice.
Tiger Panda is a relaxed outdoor spot that is fast satisfying Thai & Asian cravings around Venao. Create different combinations of proteins, noodles, rice, sauces and everything asian or enjoy part of their Thai dishes as you take in the different languages around you and feel the multiculturality of our beach. This late night spot can be recognized with its red lanterns and chatter in the center of main street Venao.

EVERYDAY 16:00 - 01:00

VENAO BREWING HOUSE

Our very own Artisanal Beer

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Highlights: 

artisanal, venao beer, local experience

WED - MON 8:00 - 22:00
Closed Tuesdays.

VILLA MARINA BISTRO

International Beachfront Bistro

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Highlights: 

beachfront, romantic, quiet, international cuisine, bonfire, live music.
Villa Marina bistro is a fine restaurant located in a quiet corner of Playa Venao. Taste their delicious dishes while you enjoy the spectacular view of Playa Venao, in a relaxing environment, typical of a traditional home in Pedasí. Make yourself at home while savoring a dish with local ingredients such as eggs breakfasts, sandwiches, seafood plates, pastas and salads. Check the daily activity calendar as Villa Marina sometimes proposes bonfire night, sunset with live music and other interesting events to enjoy this corner of paradise even more.

EVERYDAY 7:30 - 21:00

THINKING TO ORGANIZE A PRIVATE
DINNER/CATERING WHILE IN VENAO?

If you are coming to Venao with a group of friends you must try a special dining experience. We work with several private Chefs and Venues and can surprise you and your guests! 

Get in touch with us and we will help you to navigate the options 

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